Russell E.L. Butler is a non-binary experimental artist and DJ based in Oakland, California. Originally from Bermuda, Russell has developed a process of improvisation that draws from a rich cultural history rooted in their island and the black, queer diaspora. Following releases on Left Hand Path, Jacktone Records, Black Opal, and CGI Records, Butler enters the Spectral Sound fold with Petty, a 4-track EP of pummeling machine techno. SPC-141, presented by its producer:
"This record is a bit more self-reflective whilst also being more formal. I wanted to create something thick, something bangin, something cathartic, something that makes you punch the floor. This is definitely my most 'functional' techno record to date, but I still wanted some of the sound design to have conceptual weight to it. The kicks are layered and meant to feel like youre dropping a cinderblock on a hardwood floor. The bass feels like it could push anything out of its way. The tracks feel like theyve already begun before you even pressed play. I like this thread throughout my work. Its like youre a guest in my cognitive world and youre jumping into the middle of a tour Im giving.
"The title, Petty, is a reminder to myself to reject the performance of respectability. As a light-skinned, educated, able-bodied, black person that grew up in financial privilege, there is an expectation that people like me should be 'safe' black people to interact with. Some of us can pass as white, some of us can code switch from one vernacular to another, depending on who were around, some of us can perform the expectations of white supremacy, in order to get ahead in this world. To me, Petty is a rejection of this performance."